The Canadian Paediatric Society is calling for all provinces and territories to adopt mandatory helmet laws to replace the patchwork of rules currently in place.
British Columbia, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island are currently the only provinces that order all cyclists to wear helmets.
Alberta, Manitoba and Ontario have helmet laws only for children.
The paediatric society says the rest of the provinces and territories don’t legislate helmet use, though they may have education programs that recommend protective headgear.
But a position paper issued by the group today says systematic reviews have shown helmets decrease the risk of head injuries while cycling, with one showing a reduction of 69 per cent.
Author Brent Hagel says studies have found the use of helmets went up in Canadian provinces where legislation was passed.
Hagel says he recognizes some adults may resent the imposition but says children are more likely to put their helmets on if they see adults lead by example.
